General News
25 May, 2026
Studies are a family affair
AN Innisfail mother and daughter are studying side by side while building new pathways for their family and community on the Cassowary Coast.
Mellissa Watson is a mother of four, a business owner and a community workshop facilitator. She is also in the final trimester of a Diploma of Community Welfare and Wellbeing through the University of New England.
Her daughter Caitlin Watson, 24, is in the final stages of a double degree in arts and law at James Cook University and is set to become the first person in their family to graduate with a university degree.
Both are First Nations women who are studying in Innisfail, with help from the Cassowary Coast Uni Centre by VPG.
They also share a home, a study routine, and according to Caitlin, something that makes all of it possible – “She’s my best friend.”
“We work, study, live together – it’s hilarious to think about, but it works,” said Cailtin.
Mellissa first tried university straight out of high school. Life had other plans.
Four children, a cleaning business, years of early mornings and long days – her own study was set aside so her family could come first.
“She worked so hard for us. There were times she had multiple jobs going at once just to keep things stable. She did everything for her kids,” said Caitlin.
Now, with her children grown, she has returned to study with clarity and direction.
Her diploma is a pathway into a Bachelor of Social Work, a field she has chosen through lived experience and a deep understanding of the importance of culturally safe, community-based support.
Her goal is to support families in her community through work that is grounded in lived experience and a clear understanding the difference a compassionate, culturally connected support person can make.
Outside of study, Mellissa continues to contribute to her community, running workshops across the Cassowary Coast. She was recently commissioned by Cassowary Coast Regional Council to lead a workshop as part of Mission Beach’s CBD revitalisation events, with more than 140 people attending.
Caitlin will be the first person in her family to complete a university degree.
She began her studies on campus in Cairns before returning home to Innisfail as living costs increased, transitioning to external study while working most evenings.
Her degree combines arts and law, majoring in Indigenous studies.
Originally intending to pursue a career in law, Caitlin completed internships in large city firms before returning home with a clearer sense of direction.
“I felt disconnected there. Our regional communities deserve strong, culturally connected support – and that’s where I want to be,” she said.
Both students credit the Cassowary Coast University Centre for supporting their studies.
Melissa is expected to complete her diploma later this year and Caitlin by the end of 2026.
Read More: Innisfail